Welcome to

8D Problem Solving Process - An Overview

Clinic #2
ASQ Orange Empire Monthly Dinner Meeting
February 12, 2013
Frank G. Adler, Ph.D.
Principal & Managing Partner
Operational Excellence Consulting LLC
[email protected]
www.operational-excellence-consulting.com

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8D Problem Solving Process - An Overview

Presenter: Frank G. Adler
Operational Excellence Consulting

People and their managers are working so

hard to be sure things are done right, that they
hardly have time to decide if they are doing the
right things.
Stephen R. Covey

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Purpose & Key Learning Points

Learning Outcomes:

understand the purpose and objectives of each phase of the
8D Problem Solving Process

learn how to utilize key problem solving tools in each phase
of the 8D Problem Solving Process

use assessing questions effectively at the end of each phase
of the 8D Problem Solving Process

be able to apply some of the problem solving tools and
key learning points on a simple case study

Case Study: We will have a case study throughout the presentation

so that you can apply and practice some of the key learning points.
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Problem Solving Process - The Terminology

 Symptom A quantifiable event or effect, experienced by a Customer
(internal & external), that may indicate the existence of one or more problems.
 Problem A deviation from an expectation, standard, or status quo; a
perceived gap between the existing state and a desired state. In the context of
the 8D Problem Solving Process the cause(s) of the problem is not known.
 Possible Cause Any cause, identified through Process Mapping and C & E
Matrix, Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone Diagram, that describes how an effect
may occur.
 Most Likely Cause A theory, based on available or collected data, that
best explains the problem description.
 Root Cause A verified cause that convincingly supports and explains
ALL facts available and thus accounts for the problem; verified passively and
actively, by making the problem come and go. Root causes are the
fundamental, underlying reasons for a problem, e.g. management policies,
product design, system design, process capabilities, technology constraints,
standard operating procedures and human errors.

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Problem Solving Process - The Tool Box

If you only have a hammer, everything looks like a nail.

You need the right tools for the right tasks.

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Establish the Team Key Activities

Purpose: Establish a small group of people with the process and/or product
knowledge, allocated time, authority, and skills in the required technical
disciplines to solve the problem and implement corrective actions. Review
and scope the problem or improvement opportunity.
 Review priorities, scope and complexity
 Identify if a team is needed
 Identify team members and establish the team
 Nominate a team leader, project champion and facilitator
 Establish roles and responsibilities
 Establish basic team guidelines
 Consider team building exercises

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Phase 1 Checklist Questionnaire

The Problem Solving Team:
 Are the people affected by the problem represented?
 Does each person have a reason for being on the team?
 Do the team members agree on membership?
 Is the team large enough to include all necessary input, but small
enough to act effectively?
 The Team Leader has been identified?
 The Champion of the team has been identified?
 Need for a Facilitator to coach the process has been
considered?
 Have the roles and responsibilities been reviewed?

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Describe the Problem Key Activities

Purpose: Describe the internal or external problem by identifying what is wrong
with what and detailing the problem in quantifiable terms.
 Develop a Problem Statement
 Develop a Problem Description using the IS IS NOT Matrix
 Develop a flowchart of the process and identify critical process steps with
respect to the Problem Description and Escape Point(s)
 Determine whether the problem describes a something changed or a
never been there situation
 Develop a Cause & Effect Matrix, Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone Diagram
to identify all possible causes?
 Establish a high-level project plan, including milestones,
project goals and objectives

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The Problem Statement (Step 1)

There are two steps to develop a good Problem Statement.
The first step is used to identify the object and the defect and develop the
initial Problem Statement.
The object and the defect are defined by asking What is wrong with what?
 What is wrong? is the defect
 The defect is an unwanted characteristic present in a product or
process broken, missing, wrong, too short,
 with what? is the object
 The object is the name given to a specific product or process that
exhibits the defect

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The 5 Whys
Description: The 5 Whys Analysis helps to identify the final problem
statement or in some cases even the root cause.
Step 1: Develop an initial problem statement of the specific problem to be
solved. Write it in the upper left corner of a piece of paper, flip chart or white
board.
Step 2: Ask Why? this problem does or could occur. Write the cause (object &
defect) underneath the initial problem statement.
Step 3: The cause identified in Step 2 now becomes a new problem statement.
Repeat Step 2 and ask Why?, e.g. Why would this situation occur?", again.
Step 4: Continue Step 2 and Step 3 until you cannot for certain answer the
question or reach an answer that is fundamental and actionable.

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The Problem Statement (Step 2)

Once the initial problem statement (object & defect) is established, the second step
is to use the 5 Whys and ask Why would this situation occur? or Why is
that happening to that object?
The objective of this step is to refine the initial problem statement to


determine the problem, rather than the symptom of the problem

focus efforts on a single problem with a single root cause

get as near as possible to the root cause using existing knowledge &
information

check if the root cause of the problem is really unknown

If you are certain that you have found the root cause, then you can immediately go
to Phase 4 Define and Verify Root Cause and test your root cause theory.
However, if the cause is unknown and there is a need to find the root cause, then
the last object and defect with an unknown cause is the final Problem Statement.

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Problem Statement - Example

What is the Problem Statement (Object & Defect)?

Initial Problem
Statement

WHY? We did not have the right rework tool.

WHY? The tool was not in inventory.
WHY? The Supplier did not deliver the replacement
Finaltools.
Problem
Statement
WHY? The Supplier did not receive our Purchase Order on-time.
WHY? We did not submit the Purchase Order on time.
WHY? We dont know.

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Case Study Group Work 1

The Task:
 Read the introduction to the Felt Tip Marker Case Study
 Develop the Problem Statement for the Case Study

5 Minutes

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Process Flowchart
Most problem solving projects will require a process flowchart as the problem is
associated with a process that is failing. The team needs to understand how
that process works or at least is intended to work.
A Process Flowchart is a graphical process description of the work flow or
activities using standard symbols for each of the activities.
Different types of activities are described with standard symbols. The problem
areas in the process are often relatively easy to discover when assessing the
flowchart.
An ellipse shows the start and the end point of the process.
A box describes an activity or process step.
A diamond shows a decision making step.
An arrow shows the direction from one activity to another.

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Change-Induced vs. Day-One-Deviation

Performance SHOULD

DEVIATION

DEVIATION

Change

Performance SHOULD

Performance ACTUAL
Past

Present

When the process performance once met

the SHOULD and no longer does, then
you have a Change-Induced problem.

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Day One

Present

When a condition required for achieving the

SHOULD never existed, then you have a
Day-One-Deviation problem.

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The Problem Description

The Problem Description defines the boundaries of the problem, in terms of what it is
and what it is not but could be.
Scientific description of any event can be made by providing information on
 What the problem is and what it is not but could be?


IS - The long brackets are missing

IS NOT - The short brackets are not missing (but could be)

 Where the problem is and where it is not but could be?



IS - The order entry defects are in direct ship orders

IS NOT - The order entry defects are not in stock orders (but could be)

 When the problem occurs and when it does not but could?


IS - The clips started breaking in early 2010

IS NOT The clips did not break before early 2010 (but could have)

 How big the problem is and how big it is not but could be?


IS - About 50% of the paychecks are incorrect

IS NOT Not all paychecks are incorrect (but could be)

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The IS IS NOT Matrix

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET

Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

DISTINCTIONS

CHANGES

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

What could explain the IS-IS NOT?

(People, Methods, Material,
Machines, Environment)

What has changed in, on, around or

about this distinction?
When
did it change?

<Define Possible Root Cause

Theory>

Object:
What?
Defect:

Where?
Where is the object when the
defect is observed? Where is the
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends identifiable?

When?
When was the defect observed
first? Can or was the defect be
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has the
defect occurred? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable?

How Big?
How many objects have the
defect? What is the size of a single
defect? How many defects are on
each object? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable?

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Case Study Group Work 2

The Task:
 Study the Felt Tip Marker Case Study (Part 1) thoroughly
 Develop the Problem Description for the Case Study

30 Minutes

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Case Study - Problem Description

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET
Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

DISTINCTIONS

CHANGES

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

What could explain the IS-IS NOT?

(People, Methods, Material,
Machines, Environment)

What has changed in, on, around or

about this distinction?
When
did it change?

<Define Possible Root Cause

Theory>

Object: Red felt tip marker

Blue, black or green marker

Defect: Leaks

Totally dry

Tip

Barrel (side or base)

What?

Where?

Both our place and next door Just us or just next door
Where is the object when the
defect is observed? Where is the All other places/customers
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends identifiable?

When?

First seen two weeks ago

When was the defect observed Daily

first? Can or was the defect be Continuing
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has the Last ten days shipments
defect occurred? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable? Upon arrival

How Big?

No other places/customers

Before two weeks ago

Just some days
Stopped

Just some daily shipments

Develops later (on shelf) in supply
room
Just some red felt tip markers (less
All red felt tip markers (100%)
than 100%)
All shipments
Just some shipments

How many objects have the

defect? What is the size of a single All ten per day
defect? How many defects are on
Slow drip
each object? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable?

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Less than 10 per days

Steady or pressurized stream

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Identifying Possible Causes

To learn more about a specific problem and identify all possible
causes, the following tools are often very helpful and widely used.


Process Flowchart and 

Cause & Effect Matrix or

Why Why Diagram or

Fishbone Diagram

These tools work really great in a team environment to ensure that

everyone has a voice and every voice is being heard.
Select the Cause & Effect Matrix, the Why-Why Diagram or the
Fishbone Diagram based on the problem you try to solve and/or your
personal or teams preference.

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Fishbone Diagram - Phase 1

Cause-and-Effect or Ishikawa Diagram is another way of looking at the possible
causes of a problem. It organizes large numbers of possible causes into predefined categories, e.g. 4Ms & 1 E or 4 Ps, or team-defined categories.
4Ms = MEN

Materials

Methods

METHODS
Main Branch

MATERIALS

Second-Level
Possible Causes

MACHINES

Trunk

+ ENVIRONMENT

Problem
Statement

4Ps = PEOPLE
PRODUCT
PRICE

Minor Branch

Men/People

Machines

Environment

PROMOTION
Primary Possible Cause Category

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Phase 2 Checklist Questionnaire

Problem Statement:
 The initial question Whats wrong with what? has been answered?
 The 5 Whys were used to asking questions Do we know for certain
why this is occurring?
 A final problem statement (or specific root cause) has been defined
(object and defect) and documented?
Problem Description:
 A thorough IS IS NOT Analysis has been performed (what, where,
when, how big) and documented?
 The problem description has been confirmed as to what
the Customer and/or affected party(s) are experiencing?
 Physical evidence of the problem has been obtained?

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Phase 2 Checklist Questionnaire

Problem Description (cont.):
 Determination has been made as to whether this problem describes
a Change-Induced or a Day-One-Deviation situation?
 The current process flow has been identified and documented (if
applicable)?
 Process detail has been reviewed to determine where this problem
first appears?
 Problem pattern(s) has been considered / evaluated?
 Similar components and/or parts have been reviewed for the same
problem?
 All required data has been collected and analyzed?
 A Cause & Effect Matrix, Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone
Diagram has been developed to identify possible causes?

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Develop Interim Containment Actions Key Activities

Purpose: Define, verify and implement Interim Containment Action to isolate
the effects of the problem from any internal and/or external Customer until
Permanent Corrective (Preventive) Action are implemented.
 Define potential Interim Containment Action
 Verify effectiveness of potential Interim Containment Action
 Select and implement Interim Containment Action
 Validate effectiveness of implemented Interim Containment Action with
the Customer

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Phase 3 Checklist Questionnaire

Planning:
 Appropriate departments have been involved in the planning of the
Interim Containment Action
 Plans, including action steps, have been developed considering who
needs to do what by when?
 The Customers viewpoint has been considered for the Interim
Containment Action
 The Customers approval has been obtained?
 A validation method for the Interim Containment Action has been
determined?
Post Implementation:
 The validation data indicates that the Customer is being
protected from the symptom of the problem?

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Define and Verify Root Causes Key Activities

Purpose: Isolate and verify the root cause by testing each root cause theory
against the Problem Description and supporting data. Isolate and verify the
place in the process where the effect of the root cause could have been
detected and contained but was not (escape point).
 Establish any additional data collection plans needed to learn more about
the problem and/or possible causes.
 Utilize the Cause & Effect Matrix, Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone Diagram
created earlier to identify the most likely cause(s).
 Isolate and verify the most likely cause(s) by testing each Root Cause
Theory against the Problem Description and the
collected data.
 Isolate and verify the place in the process where the
effect of the root cause could have been detected
and contained but was not (escape point).

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Comparative Analysis
 The Comparative Analysis is the third part of the 8D Problem Solving
Process Worksheet.
 The Comparative Analysis connects the facts from the Problem Description
(IS IS NOT Matrix) with the analysis of possible causes using the Process
Flowchart and the C&E Matrix or Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone Diagram.
 Step 1: Compare each IS with its corresponding/contrasting IS NOT. List
any known distinctions and uncommon factors that could explain the IS
and IS NOT.
 Ask: What is unique, odd, different, distinctive, unusual about the IS?
 Consider the possible causes identified so far.
 Step 2: List all known changes in distinctions and uncommon factors.
 Ask: What has changed in, on, around or about this distinction and
uncommon factors?

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Comparative Analysis - Example

 Problem Description:
 WHAT IS The Red Makers leak
 WHAT IS NOT The Blue Markers could leak, but are not
 Comparative Analysis:
 Distinctions
 1. Different Color Plastic
 2. Different Color Ink
 3. Strawberry Scent in Red Marker
 Changes
 1. New Plastic Supplier (5 weeks ago)
 2. Added Powder to Red Marker (2.5 weeks ago)

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Comparative Analysis
PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET
Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

DISTINCTIONS

CHANGES

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

What could explain the IS-IS NOT?

(People, Methods, Material,
Machines, Environment)

What has changed in, on, around

or about this distinction?
When did it change?

<Define Possible Root Cause

Theory>

Object: Red felt tip marker Blue, black or green marker

What?

Where?
Where is the object when the
defect is observed? Where is the
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends
identifiable?

When?

Defect: Leaks

Totally dry

Tip

Barrel (side or base)

First seen two weeks ago

When was the defect observed

first? Can or was the defect be
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has
the defect occurred? Are there
any pattern or trends
identifiable?

How Big?

All red felt tip markers

(100%)

How many objects have the

defect? What is the size of a
single defect? How many
defects are on each object? Are
there any pattern or trends
identifiable?

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Before two weeks ago

Just some red felt tip markers (less

than 100%)

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Case Study Group Work 3

The Task:
 Study the Felt Tip Marker Case Study (Part 2) thoroughly
 Perform a Comparative Analysis on the Felt Tip Marker Case Study

30 Minutes

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Case Study - Comparative Analysis

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET
Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

DISTINCTIONS

CHANGES

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

What could explain the IS-IS NOT?

(People, Methods, Material,
Machines, Environment)

What has changed in, on, around or

about this distinction?
When did it change?

<Define Possible Root Cause

Theory>

Object: Red felt tip marker

Blue, black or green marker

Defect: Leaks

Totally dry

Red Plastic - Red Ink - Strawberry

Scent (2.5 weeks ago)

New Plastic Supplier (5 weeks ago) Added Powder (2.5 weeks ago)

Felt Material

New Felt Supplier (1 Week ago)

New Outside Sleeve Packaging (2

Weeks ago)

New Outside Sleeve Packaging (2

Weeks ago)

What?

Where?

Tip
Barrel (side or base)
Both our place and next door Just us or just next door

Where is the object when the

defect is observed? Where is the All other places/customers
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends identifiable?

When?

First seen two weeks ago

When was the defect observed Daily

first? Can or was the defect be Continuing
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has the Last ten days shipments
defect occurred? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable? Upon arrival

How Big?

All red felt tip markers (100)

All shipments

How many objects have the

defect? What is the size of a single All ten per day
defect? How many defects are on
each object? Are there any patternSlow drip
or trends identifiable?

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No other places/customers

Before two weeks ago

Just some days
Stopped
Just some daily shipments
Develops later (on shelf) in supply
room
Just some red felt tip markers (less
than 100)
Just some shipments
Less than 10 per days
Steady or pressurized stream

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Fishbone Diagram - Phase 2

Most Likely
Cause #1

Materials

Methods
Main Branch

Second-Level
Possible Causes

Trunk

Most Likely
Cause #2

Problem
Statement
Minor Branch

Men/People

Machines

Environment
Most Likely
Cause #3

Primary Possible Cause Category

In Phase 2 of the Fishbone Diagram, the team tries to reduce the large number of
possible causes to a short list of most likely causes, using the Problem Description,
Comparative Analysis, data analysis and the teams combined process knowledge
and experience.
Remember, the root cause(s) convincingly supports and explains ALL facts available
and thus accounts for the problem. So, you need to ask yourself If this would be
the root cause of the problem, would it explain the Problem Description?

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Root Cause Theory Testing

 Step 1: Use the 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet, supported by the C&E
Matrix or Why-Why Diagram or Fishbone Diagram, to formulate Root Cause
Theories based on the identified most likely cause(s) of the problem.
 Step 2: Enter a short description of a Root Cause Theory as header into the last
column of the 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet.
 Step 3: Assess the Root Cause Theory against each IS IS-NOT statement.
 Enter a + if the theory explains or does not conflict with the ISIS-NOT
statement.
 Enter a - if the theory conflicts with the ISIS-NOT statement.
 Enter a ? if you are not sure and further investigation may be necessary.
 The Root Cause(s) convincingly supports and explains ALL ISIS-NOT
statements and thus accounts for the problem.

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Root Cause Theory Testing

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET
Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

DISTINCTIONS

CHANGES

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

What could explain the IS-IS NOT?

(People, Methods, Material,
Machines, Environment)

What has changed in, on, around or

about this distinction?
When
did it change?

<Define Possible Root Cause

Theory>

Object:

+ -?

Defect:

What?

Where?
Where is the object when the
defect is observed? Where is the
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends identifiable?

When?
When was the defect observed
first? Can or was the defect be
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has the
defect occurred? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable?

How Big?
How many objects have the
defect? What is the size of a single
defect? How many defects are on
each object? Are there any
pattern or trends identifiable?

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
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Root Cause Theory Testing - Example

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS WORKSHEET
Problem Statement
(What is wrong with what?):

Red Felt Tip Marker Leaks

IS

IS NOT

Describe what does occur

Describe what does not occur, but

could occur

DISTINCTIONS

TEST FOR MOST LIKELY CAUSES

(+) (-) (?)

CHANGES

What could explain the IS-IS NOT? What has changed in, on, around or
<New Plastic Supplier - Plastic is
(People, Methods, Material,
about this distinction?
When
too porous ink leaks through.>
Machines, Environment)
did it change?
Red Plastic - Red Ink - Strawberry
Scent (2.5 weeks ago)

New Plastic Supplier (5 weeks ago) Added Powder (2.5 weeks ago)

Object: Red felt tip marker

Blue, black or green marker

(-)

Defect: Leaks

Totally dry

Tip

Barrel (side or base)

(-)

What?

Where?
Where is the object when the
defect is observed? Where is the
defect on the object? Are there
any pattern or trends
identifiable?

When?

First seen two weeks ago

When was the defect observed

first? Can or was the defect be
observed before, during or after
other events? When since has
the defect occurred? Are there
any pattern or trends
identifiable?

How Big?

All red felt tip markers (100)

How many objects have the

defect? What is the size of a
single defect? How many defects
are on each object? Are there
any pattern or trends
identifiable?

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Before two weeks ago

(-)

Just some red felt tip markers (less

than 100)

(+)

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Root Cause Verification

 Active Verification is a process where
 the problem solver uses the variable thought to be the root cause to
make the effect come and go. Both coming and going are important tests
to confirm root causes.
 Passive Verification is done by observation.
 With passive verification, you look for the presence of the root cause
without changing anything. If you cannot prove the presence of the root
cause, then chances are great that this most likely cause is not the root
cause.
Step 1: Identify, document and perform a passive and/or active
root cause verification method.
Step 2: Continue with the 8D Problem Solving Process if the
passive and/or active root cause verification was successful.
Otherwise, develop and test additional Root Cause Theories.

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Escape Point Identification

Control System: A control system is a system deployed to monitor the product
or process and ensure compliance to Customer requirements. It consists of
responsibilities, procedures and resources.
Control Point: A control point is a location within the control system where the
product or process is checked for compliance to certain specified requirements.
There may be multiple locations within a control system.
Escape Point: The escape point is the earliest location in the process, closest
to the root cause, where the problem could have been detected, but was not.

Step 1: Using the Process Flowchart, identify Escape Point(s)

for the verified root cause(s).
Step 2: Determine if Control Points were missing or ineffective
to detect the root cause of the problem at the escape point.

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Phase 4 Checklist Questionnaire

Root Cause(s):
 The factual information in the Problem Description has been updated?
 Differences unique to the IS when compared to the IS NOT have
been identified?
 For a Change-Induced problem, changes in or around the differences
have been uncovered?
 The root cause theories developed have been tested against each IS
- IS NOT statement?
 The final root cause theory accounts for all IS - IS NOT statements?
 For multiple root causes, the causes were reviewed to
determine if, collectively, they account for all of the problem
description?
 The root cause(s) was/were verified passively and actively?

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Phase 4 Checklist Questionnaire

Escape Points:
 The process flow was reviewed and control points associated with the
root cause(s) identified.
 A determination was made as to the existence of a control system to
detect the problem?
 If a control system exists, changes from its original design (if any) have
been identified?
Project Management:
 The Project Champion has reviewed and supports the
analysis, findings and conclusions?
 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet & Project
Documentation has been updated?

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Choose Permanent Corrective Actions Key Activities

Purpose: Select the best Permanent Corrective Actions to remove the root
cause and to address the escape point in the process. Verify that both decisions
will be successful when implemented and not cause any undesirable effects.
 Develop solution(s) to remove the root cause(s)
 Develop solution(s) to address the escape point(s)
 Select the best solution(s) to remove the root cause(s)
 Select the best solution(s) to address the escape point(s)
 Verify that effectiveness of the selected solutions
 Verify that selected solutions do not cause any
undesirable effects

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Mistake-Proofing Principles, Methods & Devices

Six Mistake-Proofing
Principles

Seven Mistake-Proofing
Devices

1. Elimination

1. Guide Pins

2. Prevention

2. Error Detection & Alarms

3. Replacement
4. Facilitation

3. Limit Switches

5. Detection

Five Mistake-Proofing
Methods

6. Mitigation

1. Variation Control
2. Workplace Organization
3. Identification

4. Sensors
5. Vision Systems
6. Counters & Timers
7. Checklists

4. Process Checks
5. Poka-Yoke Devices

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Human Errors Mistake-Proofing Examples

SIM cards only fit one way.
The right way.

Expose your team to (simple) everyday Mistake-Proofing devices and

examples and make them think about how they could use these concepts
in their own work area.
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Double-Team & Multivoting

3 - 5 Solutions
3 - 5 Solutions

Board

Three Solutions from

the 1. Double Team

1 ||||

||

4 |

5 |||| |

||||

6 |||

Three Solutions from

the 2. Double Team

Selection of the
2-3 most voted
solutions

5
3 - 5 Solutions

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
CONSULTING

1
3 - 5 Solutions

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Double-Team & Multivoting

Double team (2&2) is a team working technique which ensures everybodys
contribution in creating ideas.
1. Present the problem statement
2. Create ideas (3-5 ideas per person)
3. Discussion of ideas in double teams

Team Leader
All Individually
Double Teams

~
~
~

2 min
10 min
15 min

Double Teams

5 min

Team
All Individually

~
~

5 min
5 min

Team Leader
Team

~
~

5 min
2 min

 choose the 3 best ideas

 hang on the wall

4. Present ideas to the entire team

 no discussion

5. Place similar solutions into groups

6. Voting
 5 votes per person
 max 2 votes per solution
 max 1 vote for own solutions

7. Counting the votes

8. Choose the solution(s) with most votes

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Phase 5 Checklist Questionnaire

Solution Selection:
 Criteria have been established for selecting solutions for root cause(s)
and escape points?
 Project Champion agrees with selection criteria?
 The right experience is on the team to choose the best solutions?
 Full range of alternatives have been considered for the solutions?
 The features and benefits for the perfect choice have been preserved?
 A risk analysis was performed on the solutions selected?
 All affected parties were consulted on the selected solutions?
 Consideration has been given to the resources required for
the implementation and ongoing support or maintenance of
the solutions?

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Phase 5 Checklist Questionnaire

Solution Verification:
 Evidence (proof) exists that these solutions will resolve the problems
at the root cause level?
 Variables measured during the verification step ensure sound
verification?
 Verification methods evaluated the solutions over the full range of
operating conditions?
Project Management:
 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet & Project
Documentation has been updated?

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CONSULTING

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Implement Permanent Corrective Actions Key Activities

Purpose: Plan and implement selected Permanent Corrective Actions,
remove the Interim Containment Action. Monitor long-term results.
 Implement the best solution(s) to remove the root cause(s)
 Implement the best solution(s) to address the escape point(s)
 Validate the effectiveness of the implemented solutions from the
Customer perspective
 Monitor the effectiveness of the implemented solutions and assure that
they do not cause any undesirable effects
 Remove Interim Containment Action(s)

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Phase 6 Checklist Questionnaire

Planning:
 Need for Permanent Corrective Actions implementation support from
other departments has been evaluated?
 Consideration was made to the need of Customer and Supplier
involvement?
 An action plan has been defined (responsibilities, timelines, financial
resources, support requirements, )?
 The plan has been communicated to those that have a need to know?
 The Champion agrees with the plan?
 Measurables have been identified for the validating the
outcome of the Permanent Corrective Actions?

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Phase 6 Checklist Questionnaire

Validation:
 The Interim Containment Action has been discontinued?
 Validation measurables have been proven that the unwanted effect
has been totally eliminated?
 Long-term results are continuing to be monitored?
 The Customer has provided confirmation that the Permanent
Corrective Actions are effective?
Project Management:
 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet & Project
Documentation has been updated?

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CONSULTING

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Prevent Recurrence Key Activities

Purpose: Modify the necessary systems, including policies, methods,
and procedures, to prevent recurrence of the problem and similar ones.

Identify opportunities to improve systems, policies, methods and
procedures for the present problem

Identify opportunities to improve systems, policies, methods and
procedures for similar problems

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Process Control Plan

A Control Plan is a written statement of an organizations quality planning
actions for a specific process, product, or service.
The Objective of an effective Process Control Plan is to
 operate processes consistently on target with minimum variation,
which results in minimum waste and rework
 assure that product and process improvements that have been
identified and implemented become institutionalized
 provide for adequate training in all standard operating procedures,
work instructions and tools

Customer
Requirements

Product & Part

Characteristics

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
CONSULTING

Process
Input & Output
Characteristics

Process
Controls

Process
Control
Plan

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Out-of-Control-Action-Plans (OCAP)
Start

Yes

Yes
Activators

Corrective Actions

Checkpoints

No

No

Yes

Yes
No

No
Yes

Yes

No
End
 The OCAP is a systematic and ideal problem-solving tool for process problems because it reacts to
out-of-control situations in real time.
 OCAPs standardize the best problem-solving approaches from the most skilled and successful
problem solvers (experts/operators).
 The OCAP also allows (and requires) off-line analysis of the terminators to continually improve OCAP
efficiency.

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Phase 7 Checklist Questionnaire

Problem History:
 How and where the problem entered the process has been identified?
 Why the problem occurred there and why it was not detected has been
confirmed?
 We have considered whether confusion or lack of knowledge
contributed to the creation of this root cause and escape?
 Affected parties have been identified?
Corrective & Preventive Solutions:
 Policies, methods, procedures, and/or systems have been modified,
documented and implemented to prevent recurrence
of the root cause(s) and/or escape?
 Practices needing standardization have been identified,
defined and implemented?

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Phase 7 Checklist Questionnaire

Corrective & Preventive Solutions (cont.):
 Plans have been written to coordinate preventive actions and
standardize the practices?
 A method for communicating to those affected by the changes in the
new practices has been determined?
 The Champion concurs with the identified corrective & preventive
actions and plans?
Project Management:
 8D Problem Solving Process Worksheet & Project
Documentation has been updated?

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CONSULTING

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The 8D Problem Solving Process

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Establish the Team

Describe the Problem
Develop Interim Containment Actions
Define and Verify Root Causes and Escape Points
Choose and Verify Permanent Corrective Actions
Implement and Validate Permanent Corrective Actions
Prevent Recurrence
Recognize Team and Individual Contributions

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Recognize the Team Key Activities

Purpose: Complete the team experience and sincerely recognize both
team and individual contributions. Celebrate success and identify lessons
learned.
 Perform a final review of the problem solving project
 Finalize and archive project documentation
 Recognize the teams success and individual contributions
 Capture lessons learned and integrate findings into the 8D Problem
Solving Process
 Reward and celebrate

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The End
Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch
excellence.
- Vince Lombardi
Frank G. Adler, Ph.D.
Principal & Managing Partner
Operational Excellence Consulting LLC
[email protected]
www.operational-excellence-consulting.com

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